There is a lot of incorrect information being shared here about the use of excess fish carcasses and eggs from WDFW facilities. Here is the real situation. Fish carcasses and eggs from WDFW facilities are used for three purposes: nutrient enhancement, donations to food banks to meet high quality protein needs of economically depressed people (some fish may also be provided to the Dept. of Corrections to feed prisoners), and sale to a salmon processor to generate revenue for the Regional Fisheries Enhancement Group (RFEG) Program.

The disposition of funds from the sale of the salmon carcasses and eggs is prescribed by RCW 77.12.177 (5): "(5) Proceeds from the sale of salmon carcasses and salmon eggs from state general funded hatcheries by the department shall be deposited in the regional fisheries enhancement group account established in RCW 77.95.090."

A pretty substantial process was undertaken back in 2010 to determine the best use of these fish and carcasses based on a directive included in the the Washington State Legislature's 2010 Supplemental Operating Budget. The department was directed to "work with appropriate stakeholders to facilitate the disposition of salmon to best utilize the resource, increase revenues to regional fisheries enhancement groups, and enhance the provision of nutrients to food banks.” A report titled "Recommendations Regarding the Utilization of Hatchery Returns of Salmon in Excess of Hatchery Production Goals" explains, among other things, the history of use of the carcasses and eggs, how other entities like states and tribes use their excesses, the process chosen to meet the requirements of the legislature, and a WDFW proposal for how to meet the legislative directive. It can be found at the following link:

Use of surplus from WDFW facilities